In pictures: 'Tiny' Clare town sets the scene for popular TG4 series

Scoil Samhraidh Willie Clancy returns to our TV screens on TG4 once again!

Filmed on location in Miltown Malbay in July 2023, the popular series returns and will feature "high-end performances and fascinating conversation" in Clare. 

As a musical event, Scoil Samhraidh Willie Clancy showcases every single aspect of the tradition – the learners, the festival enthusiasts, the dancers, the singers, the discerning listeners, the younger modern players, and the professionals.

Now celebrating 51 years, it continues to attract international crowds and huge talent into the tiny Miltown Malbay year-on-year, without fail.

Throughout the four episodes, viewers will meet a diverse and talented cohort of characters. 

In episode one on November 26, we meet TG4 young musician of the year Méabh Smyth and her sister Aoife, Clare concertina player Aidan Quigney, a rare flute performance from Michael Flatley and Matt Molloy, and whistle player Mary Bergin, who was honoured for her lifelong contribution to the tradition at the 2023 summer school. 

In episode two on December 3, we meet local concertina player Caoilfhionn Ní Fhrighil and hear from members of the Tulla Ceilí Band who later perform at a packed-out céilí.

This episode also features beautiful music from Aoife Ní Bhriain and Caoimhín Ó Fearghail and Scottish musicians Brighde Chaimbeul & Fin Moore.  

In episode three on December 10, we meet Julie Langan and her family who join other friends for a few tunes in their mobile home in Spanish Point. US harmonica and concertina player Rick Epping joins his great friend Cathy Jordan for some songs and tunes and James Keane, Mick O’Connor and John Kelly remember their dear brother and friend Séan Keane.

In the final episode, number four on December 17, we meet the Browne family of musicians and sean nós dancers from nearby village Cree, Clare. We also meet local uilleann pipe maker Derrick Gleeson and members of the Begley family who remember their father and uncle, Séamus Begley. 

Scoil Samhraidh Willie Clancy is produced and directed by Miltown Malbay musician Edel Fox for Tyrone Productions. Scoil Samhraidh Willie Clancy will air on Sunday nights at 9.30pm for four weeks on TG4, beginning on November 26.